New Delhi, August 12: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) issued an advisory on Wednesday, urging residents of Delhi-NCR to refrain from flying kites near elevated metro lines. The warning highlights the risk of kite strings getting entangled in high-voltage overhead equipment, which could disrupt train services or pose serious safety hazards.
Kite flying is a cherished tradition in Delhi-NCR, especially around Independence Day on August 15. However, DMRC has noted that the increased kite-flying activity during this period raises the risk of kite strings becoming caught in the overhead wires or in the pantographs of moving trains. Such incidents could damage the overhead equipment or pantographs, leading to potential disruptions in metro services.
The Delhi Metro network currently spans 416 kilometers across Delhi-NCR, predominantly consisting of elevated sections. These elevated areas utilize 25,000-volt live overhead wires to power the trains transporting passengers.
DMRC has warned that direct or indirect contact with high-voltage equipment can be fatal, particularly for those using metallic kite strings. The corporation appeals to the public for cooperation in ensuring safety by avoiding kite flying around elevated metro lines that pass through residential areas. Coming into contact with the 25,000-volt overhead equipment can be life-threatening.
Additionally, DMRC advises people to enjoy kite flying in open spaces at a safe distance from metro infrastructure. This advisory comes ahead of Independence Day celebrations.
To mitigate disruptions caused by kite strings, DMRC has established a robust system. Special teams have been deployed near stations prone to kite-related incidents, and they will promptly remove any kite strings spotted around metro infrastructure.
Train operators and station staff have also been instructed to remain particularly vigilant during the kite-flying season and to quickly identify any strings that could pose a threat to overhead equipment or moving trains.
The corporation emphasized that public cooperation is essential to ensure the safety of metro passengers, staff, and the general public, as well as to maintain uninterrupted train services during Independence Day.
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